Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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James Valinoti
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I wish to convey that seeking help is a courageous step towards healing and self-improvement. I understand that reaching out for support can feel daunting, but it's essential to remember that you're not alone in your struggles. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with a trained professional who is dedicated to supporting your well-being. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, or other mental health issues, therapy can provide valuable tools and insights to help you navigate life's challenges more effectively. It's okay to ask for help and taking that first step towards therapy can lead to profound positive changes in your life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner. I treat clients across the lifespan and a sub-specialization in child and adolescents and addiction medicine. I make the experience a positive, supportive, and at times fun one. I am very clinical but I remove the "clinical feeling" from the experience. I am very client-focused and develop unique treatment plans that actually help them achieve their goals. I treat numerous areas of psychiatry including, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD and Trauma, Family/Couples therapy, sleep and appetite, Schizophrenia, OCD, ODD, personality, and eating disorders and addiction. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and supportive therapy. I learn about each individual client and learn my client's "story" so as to understand where they have been, where they are, and where they need/want to go. I also get to the "why" for each client, which is oftentimes the most important question. I utilize humor and my clients engage particularly well. My clients often say I should do standup psychiatry. My clients oftentimes ask me how I know them so well. I am famous for actively listening. My clients feel they receive my clinical expertise without feeling the clinical aspects of what one may expect in psychiatry. I am highly supportive and provide relevant health education. I utilize a team-based approach. I don't speak at my clients I speak with them. Anxiety in anticipation of the "first meeting" will be replaced by feeling more relaxed, comfortable, in a better mood, and more confident after the meeting than prior to it. They can also expect that their needs will be addressed and feel they have been "heard" by me. I am different than most in this regard as I treat my patients as I would a family member, and they can definitely feel it.
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Mike Cotayo
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It’s not about having all the answers but about working together to find what helps you feel supported and understood. Taking that first step is brave, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Looking for a Sex-Positive Therapist Who Gets It? Here I am! :) Hello there! I’m Mike Cotayo, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate life’s complexities. I earned my MSW from NYU in 2000, and in 2007, I embarked on a transformative journey to become a Gestalt Therapist, further refining my skills to provide compassionate, effective care. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I bring a unique perspective to my work, specializing in sexuality, relationships, and identity. My practice is rooted in a commitment to embracing diverse lifestyles and choices. Whether you're exploring kink, polyamory, or the intersection of disability and sexuality (a focus of my Ph.D. research), I’m here to support you with empathy, humor, and zero judgment. Laughter can be a powerful tool for healing. I believe every session should be a safe space where you can be yourself and even find moments of lightness on your journey. Let’s work together to create a life that feels authentic, fulfilling, and uniquely yours. Ready to take the first step? Reach out today—I’d love to help! Licensed in AZ, CT, NJ, NY, FL. *Treatment philosophy At Healing Our Parts, I believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health. My focus is on building a strong therapeutic relationship, where each client's unique experiences are valued. I specialize in emotional regulation, anger management, and anxiety reduction, creating tailored treatment plans that align with individual goals. I embrace diversity and work with clients facing various challenges, including trauma and addiction. Laughter and creativity play key roles in my practice, fostering healing and resilience. Together, we will navigate your journey to emotional wellness, ensuring you feel heard, supported, and empowered every step of the way. *Treatment approach •Holistic Approach to Mental Wellness •Emotional Regulation Techniques •Anger Management Strategies •Anxiety Reduction Methods •Crisis Intervention Skills •Trauma-Informed Care Practices •Harm Reduction Psychotherapy •Culturally Sensitive Interventions •Client-Centered Treatment Planning •Evidence-Based Therapy Techniques •Psychodynamic •Strength-Based •Gestalt •Experiential Therapy •Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) •Attachment-based •Coaching •Eclectic •Family Systems •Humanistic •Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) •Somatic •Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors •Telehealth sessions *Practice description At Healing Our Parts Group Psychotherapy Practice, we focus on nurturing emotional health and wellness. Led by Michael Cotayo, LCSW-R, our practice offers compassionate outpatient therapy for adolescents and adults, both in-person and via telehealth. We specialize in emotional regulation, anger management, and anxiety reduction. Our diverse clientele includes individuals navigating challenges related to HIV/AIDS, PTSD, addictions, and personality disorders. We create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's unique goals. Let us support you on your journey to healing and growth in a safe, understanding environment. Your well-being is our priority.
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Jelilat Buhari
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
If you're hesitant to try therapy, I’d encourage you to see it as a supportive, judgment-free space where you can focus on yourself. It’s a chance to understand your thoughts and feelings better and learn tools to navigate life’s challenges. Therapy is about taking that first step toward personal growth, at your own pace.
"Hi there! I’m Jelilat Buhari, a Nurse Practitioner based in Dallas, TX, dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care with a focus on mental health and wellness. My approach is all about treating the whole person, not just addressing symptoms. I take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your health history, and work closely with you to develop a care plan that fits your unique needs and goals. As a specialist in Psychiatry, I work with patients facing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, pediatric psychiatry, and mood disorders. My goal is to empower you by equipping you with the knowledge and tools to take charge of your health and well-being. I know that visiting a healthcare provider can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why I strive to create a comfortable and welcoming environment. Compassion and empathy are at the heart of my practice. I’m always approachable and ready to answer your questions, ensuring that you feel heard, understood, and supported. My style is informal yet professional, building trust through open communication so that you feel confident every step of the way on your healthcare journey. "
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Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
To those hesitant about therapy, I'd like to convey my specialization in assisting with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Additionally, I have specialized training in trauma and chemical dependency. I emphasize a non-discriminatory approach, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds, including race, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identification, physical or mental ability, and military status.
Welcome! I'm Shumeka Hill, your dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Specialist. With a compassionate heart and a steadfast commitment to your well-being, I specialize in nurturing the mental health of individuals grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance addiction. My approach is personalized and holistic, focusing on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to craft a path to recovery that respects your unique needs. By integrating the latest evidence-based practices into our sessions—conveniently available via Zoom—I ensure that you receive care that's both effective and accessible. Beyond mental health, my expertise extends to providing comprehensive primary care, including chronic condition management and complex wound care, all while keeping your goals at the forefront. My educational journey, marked by a consistent 4.0 GPA across multiple degrees in Nursing, reflects my dedication to excellence and lifelong learning. As I work towards my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), my mission is to empower you through education about your health, promote independence in managing your care, and advocate for mental health advancements. Together, let's embark on a journey towards healing and hope.
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Larissa Yossefi
Passionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with experience in CBT/supportive therapy and medication management, specializing in anxiety, panic attacks and mood disorders
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment in which to confront challenges without judgment. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and therapy offers useful tools for personal development. You are not alone, and you can find hope and help through therapy.
Welcome to a space where your mental well-being is my utmost priority. I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a passion for nurturing the mental health of teenagers, women's health and adults alike. My journey in healthcare has been enriched by my experience as a Clinical Nursing Educator and Clinical Nurse Specialist where I honed my skills in medication administration and patient care. In my current role as the founder of Eliteshield Larissa Yossefi PMHNP-BC PLLC in Roslyn, NY, I take pride in offering comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and thoughtful medication management. Understanding that every individual is unique, I work closely with you and your loved ones to craft personalized treatment plans that resonate with your specific needs. Whether it's through face-to-face consultations or the convenience of telepsychiatry, my goal is to provide accessible and compassionate psychiatric services. From managing conditions like depression and anxiety to addressing behavioral symptoms and suicide risk, I am here to support you on your journey to mental wellness. Staying abreast of the latest research and evidence-based practices ensures that the care you receive is rooted in cutting-edge knowledge. Together, let's embrace a path toward healing and empowerment. My in-person addresses are: 195 PARKSIDE DR, ROSLYN HEIGHTS, NY, 11577 200 S Service Road, ROSLYN HEIGHTS, NY, 11577 842 Park Ave., New York City, NY, 10075
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Sylvie Sibomana
PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
If you're hesitant to try therapy, I want you to know that therapy is a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It's an opportunity to understand yourself better and develop tools to navigate life's challenges. You don't have to go through it alone, and seeking help is a courageous step towards healing and growth.
As a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner, I have dedicated over eight years to improving patients' lives. My journey has taken me through various healthcare settings, from hospitals to community organizations around the world. I specialize in caring for adults, women, and children, ensuring that all my patients receive accurate assessments and the best possible care. During my time with Advance Health and Kettering Health Network, I focused on preventing hospital readmissions and managing chronic diseases. I have a passion for educating patients and their families, making complex health information easy to understand. My experience also includes supervising rehabilitation therapy and enhancing patient recovery. Beyond my professional work, I am active in community services. I volunteer with the Springboro Community Assistance Center and advocate for addiction care policies that provide equitable access to high-quality treatment for all. I bring compassion, expertise, and a commitment to making a difference in every patient's life. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
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Dr. Joshi
[email protected]
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I understand that starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but it's a safe space to explore your feelings and find tools that empower you. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
"I am a dedicated psychiatrist serving children, adolescents, and adults in Champaign, Illinois. I offer both in-person and virtual consultations starting from age 3, and I am licensed in both Illinois and Ohio. My mission is simple: to help my patients not just survive, but truly thrive. When working with young children, my focus is on minimizing the use of psychotropic medications unless absolutely necessary. I conduct a thorough 90-minute interview with both the child and their parents to gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. If appropriate, I collaborate with the child’s therapists, school counselors, social workers, and teachers to advocate for their mental health within the educational system. I believe early intervention is crucial in addressing psychiatric disorders, often leading to the best outcomes and even full remission. For college students, I provide personalized psychiatric care aimed at enhancing emotional and cognitive functioning. Having immigrated to the U.S. during high school and attended UCLA for my undergraduate studies, I understand the pressures and stresses faced in competitive environments like UIUC. I specialize in supporting students from diverse cultural backgrounds as they adjust to the U.S. college system, and I am happy to collaborate with parents for additional support if they wish. With adult patients, I pay special attention to managing drug-drug interactions and the interplay between medical and psychiatric conditions. My aim is to improve productivity while minimizing the cognitive and metabolic side effects associated with psychotropic medications. I also believe in incorporating holistic and integrative medicine when appropriate. To ensure accessibility during challenging times, I maintain a few urgent care slots for after-hours and weekend appointments. I specialize in treating a wide range of conditions, including bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, substance abuse, autism, OCD, eating disorders, psychosis, marijuana use disorder, alcohol use disorder, mood disorders, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, developmental disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, treatment-refractory depression, anxiety disorders, cognitive disorders, dementia, cultural psychiatry, dysthymia, dyslexia, bedwetting, social anxiety, school refusal, nightmares, panic disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobias, intermittent explosive disorder, borderline personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, bipolar II, schizoaffective disorder, drug-induced akathisia, conversion disorder, video game addiction, internet addiction, fibromyalgia, sports psychiatry, and career guidance. For appointments, & insurance coverage, please visit: https://www.wecare-psychiatry.com/
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Patrick McNamara
MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, BSN, RN, CCRN
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I understand that seeking help can be intimidating, but therapy is a powerful step toward healing. I focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where you can express your concerns and work through challenges. You won’t be alone in this journey—we’ll go through it together, and I’ll be there to guide and support you every step of the way.
My name is Patrick McNamara, and I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have honed my skills to diagnose, treat, and support individuals with psychiatric conditions. Currently, I practice at Empowerment Psychiatry LLC, where I focus on providing personalized mental health care. I specialize in conducting thorough mental health assessments, medication management, and therapy sessions. I am passionate about educating my patients and their families about mental health and available treatments, ensuring they feel supported and informed every step of the way. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I do have acute psychiatric experience working in a behavioral health unit. Before working in psychiatry, I mainly worked on various inpatient units in an acute care setting. I understand that physical and psychiatric conditions are intertwined and inseparable. I have a deep understanding of how chronic conditions can influence the development of psychiatric conditions. When we work together, know that you're in capable and caring hands. My approach is collaborative, and I partner with therapists and other healthcare providers to develop the best treatment plans tailored just for you. I look forward to helping you on your path to better mental health.
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Sweetie Doychinov
CRNP,PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
I completely understand that trying therapy can feel intimidating. What I’d love for you to know is that therapy is a collaborative process—you're in control of your healing. It’s a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without fear. My goal is to help you feel supported, provide new tools and perspectives, and ultimately empower you to manage your mental health in a way that feels right for you. Therapy can be a game changer, offering relief and clarity when you need it most.
As a board-certified PMHNP with nearly a decade of experience, I provide comprehensive mental health care to diverse populations. I specialize in diagnosing and treating Mood Disorders (depression, bipolar), Anxiety Disorder (GAD, Panic, PTSD), Substance Use Disorder, and ADD/ADHD disorders using evidence-based interventions and psychopharmacology. My experience spans outpatient, inpatient, and crisis stabilization settings. Currently, I serve as Medical Director at a mental health and substance abuse treatment center. I focus on medication management, therapy, and patient education to foster holistic care and improve outcomes. I empower patients through education and support, guiding them with dignity and respect. I provide psychotherapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and focus on preventative care to ensure long-term stability. Specializing in mood, anxiety, substance use disorders, and ADHD, I use a holistic approach with tailored treatments for all ages. Practice Front Description: I am passionate about helping individuals thrive. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma, psychotic disorders, substance use, and chronic mental health conditions. Using a holistic approach, I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and offer personalized medication management and therapeutic interventions. Whether you're an adolescent or an adult, I am dedicated to guiding you toward improved mental wellness with compassionate, supportive care tailored to your unique needs. Treatment philosophy: During the initial visit, clients can expect a thorough psychiatric evaluation, collaborative goal-setting, and comprehensive education about their diagnosis and available treatment options. I collaborate closely with a team of skilled clinicians to ensure that each client receives personalized care that addresses their unique needs. Treatment approach Coaching Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) Culturally Sensitive Eclectic Emotionally Focused Humanistic Mindfulness-Based(MBCT) Trauma-Focused Person-Focused Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Interpersonal Positive Psychology Prolonged Exposure Therapy Psychodynamic Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Strength-Based Structural Family Therapy Trauma Focused Specialties: Mental Health Psychotherapy Child Psychiatry Adult Psychiatry Medication Management Here is the list of conditions treated, separated for clarity: - ADHD - PTSD - Anxiety - Bipolar disorders - Depression - Addiction - Mood disorders - Substance use disorder - Alcohol use - Anger management - Antisocial personality - Behavioral issues - Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) - Coping skills - Dissociative disorders - Drug abuse - Eating disorders - Emotional disturbance - Grief and loss - Open relationships/non-monogamy - Stress - Trauma and PTSD - Veterans"
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